Tragedy in Nasarawa: 11 Killed, Dozens of Homes Burned in Suspected Reprisal Attack

A wave of violence has once again shaken communities in Nasarawa State, leaving at least 11 people dead and more than 50 homes destroyed in what authorities believe to be a reprisal attack.

The incident unfolded in the early hours of Friday, when armed hoodlums stormed several communities, unleashing destruction and fear. Reports indicate that the attack may have been carried out in retaliation for the alleged killing of two individuals linked to the assailants. The communities of Akyawa and Udege Kasa were among the hardest hit, with Akyawa bearing the brunt of the destruction as about 50 houses were set ablaze, while two additional homes were burned in Udege Kasa.

The scale of the attack has left families grieving and many residents displaced, as entire households were reduced to ashes. Survivors are now grappling with both the emotional and material losses, while the affected communities struggle to regain a sense of normalcy.

In response to the tragic incident, the Nasarawa State Police Command has moved swiftly to address the situation. In a statement released on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Mohammed, visited the affected areas to assess the damage and sympathize with victims.

During the visit, the Police Commissioner expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and destruction of property, assuring residents that those responsible for the attack would be brought to justice. He emphasized the Command’s commitment to ensuring accountability and restoring peace to the troubled communities.

Security agencies have since intensified efforts to track down the perpetrators. CP Mohammed has ordered a full-scale manhunt, directing tactical teams and investigative units to identify, arrest, and prosecute those involved in what he described as a heinous act.

To prevent further escalation, security presence in the affected areas has been significantly reinforced. The police are working in collaboration with the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to maintain order and safeguard residents. Authorities say these measures are part of a broader effort to stabilize the situation and prevent any recurrence of violence.

A stakeholders’ meeting was also held during the Commissioner’s visit, bringing together community leaders and residents. At the meeting, citizens were urged to remain calm, obey the law, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.

While the Police Command has assured that normalcy is gradually returning to the affected communities, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile security situation in parts of the country. For many residents, the road to recovery will be long, as they begin to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of yet another violent episode.

As investigations continue, authorities remain hopeful that swift action and community cooperation will help bring closure to the victims’ families and restore lasting peace to the region.